Sunday, 4 February 2018

Viking Star: Empires of the Mediterranean Cruise, Athens to Venice by Liz Storey

I have been fortunate to holiday previously on a cruise ship but The Viking Star experience went far beyond my expectations.

As soon as we arrived in Athens we were met by the crew of The Viking Star and immediately felt as if we were lifted up and taken care of, not to be put down again until we arrived at our final destination of Venice 10 days later.

The ship was beautiful and oozing luxury, immaculately clean with helpful crew available at every turn. After settling into our cabin, with a balcony, we toured the ships several restaurants (formal to casual), bars, shops, sun-decks and two pools as well as a spa with a snow room!

We sailed through each night and during the preceding evenings we enjoyed a short Port talk detailing the next town on the itinerary.
After the talk we could enjoy: a movie under the stars (lying on a sunbed with your own personal earphones and popcorn), listening to a Rat Pack cabaret in the bar or a musical presentation in The Star Theatre. In addition to these delights were daily lectures on various subjects, as well as wine and Armagnac tasting, Martini Nights and much more. Dancing was possible every evening with a variety of resident musicians to entertain us.

As we left the ship each day to
enjoy the on-shore excursions a member of the crew would be
waiting to put a bottle of water in our hand and if the sky looked grey, an umbrella. Nothing was left to chance. We each had a QuietVox system of earphones, ensuring we could all hear everything the local guide had to tell us. These tours were very informative and really enhanced our trip.

On returning to the ship, and after a light lunch of our choosing, the afternoon was spent swimming or sunbathing, enjoying a full afternoon tea and listening to the afternoon musician.

The smart casual dress code took away the usual anxieties and
reduced the need for a wide wardrobe of clothes. The food was without exception both tasty and
appealing. We left the ship relaxed, and heavier than when we arrived!

This trip was booked by
Scott’s Travel, Southgate. After an early booking discount it cost £3,500
per person travelling in April. This included all food, wine at meal
times, a guided shore excursion in each port, and talks by resident
historians.

If you would like to find
out more visit us at 3 Broadway, Southgate, N14 6PJ, call 020 8882 0141 or
visit www.scottstravel.co.uk.